What the heck are you talking about, I asked. I’m the most appreciative person you know. You’ve never given me anything I didn’t love to bits. I don’t go “wow, thanks. i really wanted something else, but this is good.” or “gee. did they have this in black?”

You don’t know how many times I’ve wanted to buy you something but didn’t because I didn’t know if you would like it, she said.

Were you not listening? I asked. I like everything you’ve ever given me.

I think it’s because you’re so … picky, she said.

Picky? Me? I shook my head. The problem is all in your head. You think I’m like this, but I’m not. I practically wept for joy when you got me a bogus copy of that t.v. series I liked.